1

Rail Project Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hatch is currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Project Manager - Rail Systems to join our North American Infrastructure group in our Rail Systems team in the Seattle, WA location. In this role ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Rail Project Manager information

See salary details

$94.5K

$105K

$113.5K

How much do rail project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail project manager in the United States is $104,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

Rail project managers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, certifications, and managing large or complex projects. Salaries vary by region, company, and project scope, with senior roles and those in high-cost areas more likely to reach or exceed this level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rail Project Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, rail engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6), rail safety standards, and certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 are typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and stakeholder management skills help navigate complex projects and multidisciplinary teams. These abilities ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

What does a Rail Project Manager do?

A Rail Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of rail infrastructure projects, such as the construction or upgrading of railway lines and stations. They coordinate between engineers, contractors, government agencies, and stakeholders to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to safety and quality standards. Their responsibilities include managing project schedules, budgets, risk assessments, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Additionally, they often handle communication among different teams to keep all parties informed and resolve any issues that arise during the project lifecycle.

What is the highest paying project manager job?

The highest paying project management roles are often in industries like oil and gas, technology, or construction, with senior or executive-level positions such as Program Manager or Director of Project Management offering the highest salaries. Specialized certifications like PMP or PgMP can also contribute to higher compensation. Rail project managers with extensive experience and advanced certifications may earn higher salaries, especially on large infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Rail Project Managers during large infrastructure projects?

Rail Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple stakeholders, managing complex schedules, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and regulatory standards. Delays due to unforeseen site conditions, supply chain disruptions, or changes in project scope are also common. Successful Rail Project Managers proactively communicate with engineering teams, contractors, and government agencies to address issues and keep projects on track, while balancing quality, budget, and timeline requirements.

What is the difference between Rail Project Manager vs Civil Engineer?

AspectRail Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, PMP or equivalent certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, rail infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, design offices, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, transportation agencies, infrastructure firmsEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

While both roles involve infrastructure projects, a Rail Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of rail-specific projects, focusing on project management and coordination. A Civil Engineer designs and analyzes infrastructure components, often working on the technical aspects. The Rail Project Manager typically has project management certifications, whereas Civil Engineers focus on engineering licensure. Both roles are essential in rail infrastructure development but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically executive roles such as Railroad Vice President or Chief Operating Officer, which can earn six-figure salaries. Senior management positions overseeing operations, safety, and strategic planning tend to have the highest compensation in the industry.

What do rail project managers do?

Rail project managers oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of railway construction and maintenance projects. They manage budgets, schedules, and teams, ensuring safety standards and regulatory compliance are met throughout the project lifecycle. Strong organizational, communication, and technical skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Rail Project Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Project Manager jobs? Cities with the most Rail Project Manager job openings:
What states have the most Rail Project Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Project Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rail Project Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,999 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Senior Rail Systems Project Manager

Hatch

Seattle, WA

Other

Medical, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Requisition ID: 96921 

Job Category: Infrastructure; Consulting; Engineering; Project Engineering; Project Management 

Location: Seattle, WA, United States 
 

Join a company that is passionately committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change. With more than 65 years of business and technical expertise in mining, energy, and infrastructure, our 10,000 colleagues in 150 countries tirelessly work toward bettering the industries in which we operate. With practical solutions that are safe, innovative and sustainable, we think globally while acting locally. Are you looking for an opportunity to join a diverse group of professionals who are committed to remaining exceptional? We look forward to hearing from you.

Our expertise in infrastructure includes aviation, highways and bridges, planning and advisory services, ports, rail and transit, tunnels, and water. Want to be part of the creation and construction of our cities? Then the infrastructure team is for you!

Looking to take the next step in your career?
Hatch is currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Project Manager - Rail Systems to join our North American Infrastructure group in our Rail Systems team in the Seattle, WA location.

In this role the successful candidate will manage rail systems design or design oversight teams on transit rail projects in coordination with Hatch's global rail systems practice.  Our ideal candidate will be an experienced rail systems design manager, ideally be a licensed professional engineer, and have 20+ years of experience designing and/or integrating rail systems, preferably including signaling and train control, communications, traction power, and all ancillary systems. He/she shall have a proven track record in developing and implementing systems integration tasks, managing a team of multidisciplinary engineering professionals, and developing successful teams on major design-build, design-bid-build or PPP transit programs. Advanced train control systems experience such as CBTC, ATO, or PTC is a plus.

As the successful candidate, you will: 

  • Provide design and technical integration leadership to large scale rail infrastructure projects steering a team of multi-disciplinary integration professionals to deliver a complete, functional, safe and integrated rail system design.    
  • Provide leadership, direction and technical guidance to staff, consultants, and subcontractors to ensure that quality technical services are provided to clients and that the team meets its operating performance targets.
  • Manage project production, changes, client relations, and financial management of various projects to ensure quality, client satisfaction, and profitability of all projects and tasks.
  • Provide industry guidance in chosen technical areas by participating in presentations to industry, heading industry committees, and/or participating in standards development efforts.
  • Assist in pursuits, client relationship building efforts, building the technical practice, and recruiting of staff in rail and rail systems areas.

You bring to the role: 

  • A Bachelor's degree in Engineering.    
  • Professional engineering license (highly preferred)
  • 20  years of experience with at least 10 of these years in positions with engineering management responsibilities.
  • Full knowledge of US (FTA & FRA), CENELEC, and ISO rail delivery standards and practices with ability to demonstrate using each on past projects.
  • Experience delivering both brown and green field rail programs over $500M in capital value with full lifecycle responsibility in a management role
  • Thorough knowledge of engineering management, systems engineering, asset management, operations management and quality management in the railway environment.
  • Career foundation in Rail Systems design and systems engineering. Familiarity with rail operations, stations, track, and other civil aspects of the railway.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) are required.
  • Ability and experience training and developing staff and educating clients.

Why join us?

  • Work with great people to make a difference
  • Collaborate on exciting projects to develop innovative solutions
  • Top employer


What we offer you?

  • Flexible work environment
  • Long term career development
  • Think globally, work locally

Don't meet every single requirement? You don't need to. At Hatch, we are building a diverse, inclusive workplace that fosters innovation. If you're interested in this role, we encourage you to apply even if your past experiences don't perfectly align with the skills we've listed.

We're committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate and serve. Hatch is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran, or any other protected status. If you have any accommodation requirements, please let us know. We'll do our best to meet your needs in accordance with applicable local legislation.

#HATCHUS #LI-RC1 

Base Compensation: $220,000 - $275,000 (Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

Hatch offers a generous benefits package including Health Insurance - Available the first day of full-time employment, Paid Time Off, Paid Parental Leave, Company Paid Income Protection Benefits.Â